Python has risen to become one of the most popular programming languages for robotics, among both newer robot users and those looking for advanced functionality. In this guide, we explain all you need to know to get started with Python coding for robotics.
While not traditionally considered a “robot programming language, ” Python has grown in popularity among roboticists in the last couple of decades thanks to its versatility, simplicity, and interoperability.
At RoboDK, our powerful and popular Python API adds an almost limitless level of possibility to robot programming.
Whether you are just starting in robotics or an experienced user looking to incorporate advanced features, this guide will introduce you to the essentials of Python robot programming.
Why Choose Python for Robot Programming?
There was a time when programming robots with Python would have been seen as a joke. By industrial engineers, it was considered a language that wasn’t for “serious robotics applications.”
Those days have passed…
In industrial robotics, programming languages were traditionally manufacturer-specific. Each robot brand still has its own proprietary programming language, often with conflicting and complicated programming conventions.
But, with the rise of easy-to-use robotic systems, Python has moved from hobby and research applications firmly into industrial robotics. With its beginner-friendly nature and powerful capabilities, the language is sometimes known as “The Swiss Army Knife” of programming.
Compared to the old manufacturer-specific robot programming languages, Python is universal, flexible, and extensively documented. Anyone can pick it up and start building robot cells with advanced capabilities.
If you want to spend less time programming and more time creating robot applications, Python could be the programming language for you.
How to Get Started with Python and RoboDK
RoboDK is a powerful tool for robot simulation and offline programming. Its graphical interface allows you to create robot programs without having to type a single line of code. However, when you combine RoboDK with Python through the API or scripts, you can access an impressive level of functionality.
Here are 3 steps you can take to get started with Python and RoboDK:
Step 1: Set Up Your Python Environment
First, install both RoboDK and Python on your computer. [This tutorial in the RoboDK documentation][RKDOCINSTALL] shows the process for installing RoboDK and this page on the Python website lists the latest release.
From here, install the RoboDK Python API as explained in this tutorial in the documentation.
Step 2: Get Familiar with RoboDK API
Once installed, become familiar with the Python API and what it can do.
Some useful places to start include:
- Tutorials in the documentation — These steps guide you through the basics of setting up a RoboDK Python project.
- This Video Tutorial — This video tutorial on our YouTube Channel guides you through using Python for a simulated welding operation.
- The RoboDK Example Folder — The examples shipped with RoboDK (which are accessible in the RoboDK directory on your computer) include various robot stations programmed in Python. These examples can be a good place to learn how to structure and create Python robot programs.
Step 3: Write and Test Your First Python Robot Script
Once you are a little familiar with Python programming in RoboDK, it’s helpful to build a simple application using what you have learned.
Depending on your level of experience and programming goals, you could either start by creating a simple Python script within RoboDK or link your external code to RoboDK through the API.
Testing is a key step. Frequently test the changes you make to your Python code by running them in the RoboDK simulator. This allows you to see how the robot will move in the real world.
3 Advanced Techniques to Elevate Your Python Robot Project
The real power of combining of RoboDK and Python comes with advanced capabilities it can add to your robot.
Here are 3 ways that can elevate your python program’s capabilities:
Automating Repetitive Tasks
One powerful capability of RoboDK’s Python API is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. There are endless possibilities, from batch creating motion trajectories, passing program parameters, and monitoring robot performance in real time.
For more information, read our article Introduction to RoboDK’s API: How to Automate Repetitive Tasks.
Integrating Machine Learning
Machine learning and artificial intelligence are traditionally complex aspect of programming. However, a significant benefit of Python is the huge number of freely available software libraries for advanced machine learning. With the RoboDK API, you can easily add this functionality to your robot projects.
For more information, read our article How the RoboDK API Makes Robot Machine Learning Easier.
Synchronizing Multiple Robots
Multi-robot systems are a powerful way to extend the capabilities of your robots. With Python scripts, you can synchronize multiple robots, coordinating precise movements.
To see an example in action, watch our video tutorial Using Python to synchronize 3 KUKA robots.
Take Your Python Robot Programming to the Next Level with These Resources
Python has proved itself to be a fantastic language for robot programming, offering a perfect blend of versatility, ease-of-use, and advanced functionality.
With RoboDK and Python working in tandem, you can add incredible functionality to your robot applications.
To take your Python robot programming to the next level, here are a few great articles to read next:
- 6 Tricks for Python Robot Programming — This useful article provides key tricks you can implement immediately to improve your robot programming with Python.
- How to Code a Robot for Your Next Robotic Project — If you’re just starting with robot coding, this introductory guide is a great first stop.
- 15 RoboDK Add-ins to Simplify Robot Programming and Save Time — This article lists various powerful RoboDK Add-ins to streamline your Python programming, including the Object Deleter, App Template, and Program Utilities.
With these resources and more, you can achieve great things with Python and robotics. Just take the first step!
What type of robot application would you like to develop with Python? Join the discussion on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or in the RoboDK Forum.. Also, check out our extensive video collection and subscribe to the RoboDK YouTube Channel
